115 firms jostle for meter asset providers approval

AHEAD the implementation of the new metering regulation by the Federal Government, to ease meter access next year, 115 firms have expressed interest in becoming meter asset providers (MAPs).The firms, it was gathered, have submitted their bids, granted the No Objection Rule by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), to ensure that they participate in the production and deployment of meters and other aspects of the regulation provided by NERC on the issue.Unicer Nigeria Limited Managing Director Mr Taiwo Oludotun said they were waiting for the power firms to give them the final approval.Unicer is one of the meter manufacturing firms approved by the Federal Government.He said MAPs were ready to work, provided they were given a role by power firms, adding that the initiative would spur the growth of the power sector.Oludotun said: Just as the companies that wish to operate as meter asset providers were waiting for NERC to shortlist them and further get the approval of the DisCos (distribution companies) to operate in their jurisdictions, it would be a good thing if the operators are adept with information on the issue.Last week, a seminar was organised on the issue of metering the industry, the roles of the meter asset providers, prospect of the initiative and other issues that would help in fostering the grow of the industry. This must be sustained to actualise the goals of achieving 100 per cent of the population.He urged DisCos to expedite action on the issue, as it would mark a turning point for the industry.Also, Momas Electricity Meters Manufacturing Company (MEMMCOL) Managing Director Mr Kola Balogun said with the coming of MAPs, the country would close the metering gap estimated at 4.7 million. The country will also become a meter hub for the West African sub-region if the operators and the government comply with regulations on production and supply.He told The Nation that the government had achieved success by introducing MAPs as the third party in the meter supply chain, adding that they would create direct and indirect jobs in the country.
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